End-of-Life Care and Bereavement Issues in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-AIDS

This review article addresses end-of-life care issues characterizing human immunodeficiency virus progression by delineating associated stages of medical and nursing care. The initial progression from primary medical and nursing care aimed at functional cure to palliative care is discussed. This transition is considered in accord with the major symptoms experienced, including fatigue, pain, insomnia, decreased libido, hypogonadism, memory, and concentration, depression, and distorted body image. From the stage of palliative care, progression is delineated onward through the stages of hospice care, death and dying, and the subsequent bereavement process.